Showing file extensions in Windows 10 might seem trivial, but it can save a lot of headaches. Sometimes, you download a file, and without the extension visible, it’s hard to tell if it’s a Word doc, an image, or even some malicious executable hiding behind a fake icon. Enabling this feature helps you spot suspicious files easier and avoids accidental mishaps like opening a disguised malware. It’s a quick tweak, but surprisingly useful if you tend to shovel files around or work with various formats regularly. Plus, on some setups, Windows hides them by default, making it feel like you’re in the dark about what you’re actually dealing with — kind of annoying, honestly.
How to Display File Extensions in Windows 10
Here’s the straightforward way to make those extensions show up. It’s a few clicks, but apparently, Windows still makes it a tiny bit confusing. The idea is to head into the File Explorer, find the right menu, and turn on the option to always display extensions. Once done, you’ll get a clearer picture of what kind of files you’re handling — no more guessing based on icons alone.
Access the File Explorer
- Open File Explorer by clicking its icon on the taskbar or by pressing Windows + E. If you have a more modern, minimalistic setup, it might be slightly different, but the shortcut still works. Usually, it’s somewhere on the taskbar or in the Start menu.
Just a heads-up: File Explorer is where most file management magic happens, and it’s worth knowing it can sometimes be a little quirky. For example, on some machines, the setting might not stick immediately after changing the checkbox, so don’t be surprised if you need to restart it or log out and back in.
Navigate to the View Menu
- Once your File Explorer is open, look at the top ribbon and click on View. That’s where most display options live, including layout, icon size, and toggles for hiding file details.
Enable “File Name Extensions”
- In the View tab, find the checkbox labeled File name extensions. It’s usually sitting right there, easier to spot if you’ve got a decent resolution.
- Check that box. It should be nice and clear now: your files will start showing their extensions next to the names.
Why this helps? Because it makes it obvious what file type you’re opening — a crucial step in avoiding malware, especially if you’re not super tech-savvy. Also, it applies to all folders, which is kinda nice because you don’t have to toggle it everywhere.
Verify the Change & Close
- Quickly scan your folder to confirm. Files that used to just show as “report” or “photo” now appear as “report.docx” or “vacation.jpg”.
- Close File Explorer. The setting sticks, and every time you revisit, those extensions should stay visible. If they don’t, maybe try restarting Explorer via Task Manager — it’s a bit of a hassle, but that sometimes refreshes things.
Tips to Keep in Mind
- Showing extensions helps prevent surprises when opening files, especially with executable types like .bat, .exe, or .scr. Why? Because malware sometimes disguises itself as harmless image or text files — but with extensions visible, it’s easier to spot the fakes.
- This setting is user-specific. On a shared machine, you’ll need to do this for each account.
- If you change your mind later and want to hide extensions, just go back into the View tab and uncheck File name extensions. Easy.
- Don’t forget: seeing extensions doesn’t prevent malware, but it makes it easier to identify risky files right off the bat. Combine that with good antivirus software and cautious habits.
FAQs that might pop up
Why is it useful to see file extensions?
Because it lets you spot suspicious files, like if Windows tries to hide a dangerous executable behind a fake image or PDF icon. Plus, it helps you identify file formats quickly when organizing or troubleshooting.
Can I revert this later?
Absolutely. Just uncheck the same box in View > File name extensions, and the extensions go away. It’s a toggle — no stress.
Is there any risk showing extensions?
Besides paranoia about malware, not really. But it helps prevent accidental renaming, which can mess up a file if you remove or change its extension without knowing.
Does it impact all user accounts?
Yep, each user gets to set their own preferences, so you gotta do it on each account if multiple people use the machine.
Can I selectively hide only certain extensions?
Nah, Windows 10 just shows or hides all extensions with this setting, no in-between options. For more granular control, you’d need third-party tools or extra tweaking — which gets complicated fast.
Wrap-up (aka TL;DR)
- Open File Explorer Windows + E
- Go to the View tab
- Check File name extensions
- Confirm you can see file types like .docx, .png, .exe
- Close and enjoy clearer file info next time you browse
The Bottom Line
This tiny setting can make a big difference, especially if you’re trying to avoid opening dangerous files or just get a clearer picture of what’s lurking in your folders. It’s kind of weird how Windows makes you toggle this manually, but once it’s on, you’ll wonder why you ever hid those extensions in the first place. Just keep in mind, showing extensions is more about clarity and safety — not foolproof protection, but it’s a good start. Play around with it, and see how it makes file management a little less mysterious. Fingers crossed, this helps someone cut through the clutter faster and safer.